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Deuteronomy 32:8
Verse
Context
The Song of Moses
7Remember the days of old; consider the years long past. Ask your father, and he will tell you, your elders, and they will inform you. 8When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance, when He divided the sons of man, He set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God. 9But the LORD’s portion is His people, Jacob His allotted inheritance.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance--In the division of the earth, which Noah is believed to have made by divine direction (Gen 10:5; Deu 2:5-9; Act 17:26-27), Palestine was reserved by the wisdom and goodness of Heaven for the possession of His peculiar people and the display of the most stupendous wonders. The theater was small, but admirably suited for the convenient observation of the human race--at the junction of the two great continents of Asia and Africa, and almost within sight of Europe. From this spot as from a common center the report of God's wonderful works, the glad tidings of salvation through the obedience and sufferings of His own eternal Son, might be rapidly and easily wafted to every part of the globe. he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel--Another rendering, which has received the sanction of eminent scholars, has been proposed as follows: "When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when He separated the sons of Adam and set the bounds of every people, the children of Israel were few in numbers, when the Lord chose that people and made Jacob His inheritance" (compare Deu 30:5; Gen 34:30; Psa 105:9-12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance,.... In the times of Noah and his sons, in the days of Peleg, who had his name (that is "Division") from thence, Gen 10:25; "the Most High" is a well known and proper, epithet of God; the dividing of the earth to the several nations of it, and giving to everyone their part and portion to possess and inherit, was the work of God; for though it was done by the sons of Noah, yet by the order, appointment, and direction of the Most High, who rules in heaven and in earth, Gen 10:32; men might not and did not take what they pleased, or seize on as much as they could, but each had their parcel allotted and portioned out to them, by the Lord himself; so the Targum of Jonathan."when by lot the Most High divided the world to the people that sprung from the sons of Noah:" when he separated the sons of Adam; one from another; distinguished by the persons from whom they descended, by the tribes and nations to which they belonged, and by the countries they inhabited; for though they descended from Noah and his sons, they were the sons of Adam, the first man: or rather "the children of men", as the wicked of that generation were called, in distinction from the sons of God, or his people and worshippers; and may have respect to the separation of them at Babel, where their languages were confounded, and they were scattered about, and some went into one part of the world, and some into another, according to the appointment and direction of divine Providence; so the builders of Babel are called, and this was what befell them, Gen 11:5; which sense the above Targum confirms,"when he separated the writings, the languages of the children of men in the generation of the division:'' he set the bounds of the people; or nations, the seven nations of the land of Canaan; he pitched upon and fixed the land they should inherit, and settled the bounds of it, how far it should reach, east, west, north and south: according to the number of the children of Israel: the sense is, that such a country was measured out and bounded, as would be sufficient to hold the twelve tribes of Israel, when numerous, and their time was come to inhabit it; and which, in the mean while was put into the hands of Canaan and his eleven sons to possess; not as their proper inheritance, but as tenants at will, until the proper heirs existed, and were at an age, and of a sufficient number to inherit; in which may be observed the wise disposition of divine Providence, to put it into the hands of a people cursed of God, so that to take it from them at any time could not have the appearance of any injustice in it; and their enjoying it so long as they did was a mercy to them, for so long they had a reprieve: now here was an early instance of the goodness of God to Israel, that he should make such an early provision of the land flowing with milk and honey for them, even before they were in being, yea, before their ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, existed; as early as the days of Noah; and yet, ungrateful as they were despised and set at nought his Son, the rock of salvation, when sent unto them: thus the heavenly inheritance, typified by the land of Canaan, was not only promised, but prepared, provided, secured, and reserved for the spiritual Israel of God, before the foundation of the world, from all eternity, and which is appointed according to their number; there is room enough in it for them all, though they are many; in it are many mansions for the many sons to be brought to glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
32:8 God is sovereign over and concerned with all nations and has allotted their land in accord with his own purposes (see Ps 74:17; Acts 17:26). • the Most High (Hebrew ‘Elyon): Abraham learned this name for God when he encountered Melchizedek (Gen 14:19). This ancient name describes God’s universal sovereignty. • assigned lands: One evidence of God’s sovereignty was his distribution of lands to the nations (see Gen 10).
Deuteronomy 32:8
The Song of Moses
7Remember the days of old; consider the years long past. Ask your father, and he will tell you, your elders, and they will inform you. 8When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance, when He divided the sons of man, He set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God. 9But the LORD’s portion is His people, Jacob His allotted inheritance.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Becoming a Prophetic Church) 3. Israel the Suffering Servant - Part 1
By Art Katz8.1K1:12:30Suffering ServantDEU 32:8ISA 52:12MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the crucifixion of Jesus as the most profound episode in history that reveals the heart of all reality. He suggests that the crucifixion is not only significant for Jesus but also for Israel's future experience. The preacher predicts a time when Israel will face persecution and destruction, with many being astonished at their suffering. He calls for prayer and intercession to understand the unfolding of this statement and emphasizes the importance of this moment in history.
The Tent of Shem
By Art Katz3.2K1:00:42Tent of ShemGEN 9:1DEU 32:8HAB 2:4MAT 6:33ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 11:6In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a radical message he gave as a young believer at a Full Gospel Businessmen's Conference. Despite facing backlash and criticism, the message brought about a significant change and impact on the attendees. The speaker emphasizes that God's ultimate strategy for the nations, as mentioned in Genesis 9, will face opposition from the powers of death and hell. He also mentions a prophet in Habakkuk who corrected him for missing the mind of the Lord and causing damage to the body of Christ. The speaker acknowledges the importance of seeking the Lord through fasting and prayer in delivering messages and standing firm in the face of opposition.
Dvd 34 God's Purpose for the Nations
By Art Katz1.8K1:11:37DEU 32:8PSA 24:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of nations recognizing God's sovereignty over the earth and their need to repent and seek after Him. It delves into the significance of nations, their rebellion against God, the role of Israel in God's plan, and the impending judgment on the world. The message calls for a prophetic church that confronts nations with the truth and urgency of repentance before the day of the Lord's judgment.
K-480 Israel in the Purpose of God
By Art Katz82148:58IsraelGEN 1:1DEU 32:8PSA 24:1ROM 8:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the mystery of Israel and the church's role in understanding and embracing it. He emphasizes the need for the church to be mindful of God's glory rather than being self-focused. The speaker highlights the cosmic struggle between light and darkness and the significance of the nations in this drama. He references Deuteronomy 32:8 to explain how God divided the nations and set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel. The sermon concludes with a parable about the church's attitude towards the return of the prodigal son, urging believers to share the Father's heart and rejoice rather than feeling neglected.
A Message for the Nations
By Art Katz0National RepentanceGod's SovereigntyGEN 9:11DEU 32:8PSA 2:1PSA 24:1PSA 144:15ISA 2:1EZK 5:5MAT 25:31ACT 17:24ROM 1:18Art Katz delivers a powerful message emphasizing that the nations of the world often disregard God's sovereignty and purpose, choosing instead to define their own destinies. He argues that this autonomy leads to moral decay and a rejection of God's intended order, as seen in the biblical narrative of nations. Katz calls for the church to recognize its role in urging nations to seek God, highlighting that true peace and unity among nations can only be achieved through acknowledging Israel's centrality in God's plan. He warns that nations will face judgment for their pride and rebellion against God, and urges believers to proclaim this truth boldly. Ultimately, Katz's message is a call to repentance for both individuals and nations, reminding us that God's covenant with humanity remains relevant today.
Notes of Addresses 22-24 October, 1868 at Edinburgh
By John Nelson Darby0Identity in ChristSovereign GraceDEU 32:8JHN 1:12ROM 6:4EPH 1:4PHP 3:201TH 1:102TI 1:9TIT 2:13HEB 9:121PE 1:10John Nelson Darby emphasizes the two great subjects in Scripture: God's government of the world centered around the Jews and the sovereign grace that gives believers a place in God's counsel through Christ. He explains that while Israel is central to God's earthly governance, the Church, as the body of Christ, is central to His grace. Darby highlights the importance of understanding our identity in Christ, the significance of His atoning work, and the believer's responsibility to manifest Christ in their lives. He encourages believers to embrace their position as children of God, living in the light of His grace and awaiting the return of Christ.
The Parable of the Treasure
By A.W. Pink0God's Plan for IsraelRedemptionEXO 19:5DEU 14:2DEU 32:8PSA 135:4ISA 62:1AMO 9:14MAT 13:44MAT 15:24JHN 1:112PE 2:1A.W. Pink expounds on 'The Parable of the Treasure' from Matthew 13:44, emphasizing that the treasure represents Israel, hidden in the world, and that the man who finds it symbolizes Christ. He critiques common interpretations that equate the treasure with the Gospel and the field with the Scriptures, arguing instead that the parable illustrates God's plan for Israel and the significance of Christ's redemptive work. Pink highlights the importance of understanding the context in which Jesus spoke this parable, specifically to His disciples, to reassure them of God's ongoing purpose despite Israel's rejection. The parable ultimately points to the future restoration of Israel as God's chosen people, emphasizing the distinction between the earthly and heavenly elect. Pink concludes that the completion of the parable, which involves Christ possessing the treasure, is intentionally omitted as it pertains to a future time beyond the current age.
Purity of Heart
By Clement of Rome0DEU 32:8PSA 24:3HEB 10:221PE 2:9Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of drawing near to God with holiness and purity, lifting up hands in love and gratitude to our gracious Father who has blessed us. He references the division of nations by the Most High and the special place of Jacob and Israel as chosen by God. Clement also highlights the selection of a holy nation by the Lord, symbolizing the sanctification of a people for His purpose.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance--In the division of the earth, which Noah is believed to have made by divine direction (Gen 10:5; Deu 2:5-9; Act 17:26-27), Palestine was reserved by the wisdom and goodness of Heaven for the possession of His peculiar people and the display of the most stupendous wonders. The theater was small, but admirably suited for the convenient observation of the human race--at the junction of the two great continents of Asia and Africa, and almost within sight of Europe. From this spot as from a common center the report of God's wonderful works, the glad tidings of salvation through the obedience and sufferings of His own eternal Son, might be rapidly and easily wafted to every part of the globe. he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel--Another rendering, which has received the sanction of eminent scholars, has been proposed as follows: "When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when He separated the sons of Adam and set the bounds of every people, the children of Israel were few in numbers, when the Lord chose that people and made Jacob His inheritance" (compare Deu 30:5; Gen 34:30; Psa 105:9-12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance,.... In the times of Noah and his sons, in the days of Peleg, who had his name (that is "Division") from thence, Gen 10:25; "the Most High" is a well known and proper, epithet of God; the dividing of the earth to the several nations of it, and giving to everyone their part and portion to possess and inherit, was the work of God; for though it was done by the sons of Noah, yet by the order, appointment, and direction of the Most High, who rules in heaven and in earth, Gen 10:32; men might not and did not take what they pleased, or seize on as much as they could, but each had their parcel allotted and portioned out to them, by the Lord himself; so the Targum of Jonathan."when by lot the Most High divided the world to the people that sprung from the sons of Noah:" when he separated the sons of Adam; one from another; distinguished by the persons from whom they descended, by the tribes and nations to which they belonged, and by the countries they inhabited; for though they descended from Noah and his sons, they were the sons of Adam, the first man: or rather "the children of men", as the wicked of that generation were called, in distinction from the sons of God, or his people and worshippers; and may have respect to the separation of them at Babel, where their languages were confounded, and they were scattered about, and some went into one part of the world, and some into another, according to the appointment and direction of divine Providence; so the builders of Babel are called, and this was what befell them, Gen 11:5; which sense the above Targum confirms,"when he separated the writings, the languages of the children of men in the generation of the division:'' he set the bounds of the people; or nations, the seven nations of the land of Canaan; he pitched upon and fixed the land they should inherit, and settled the bounds of it, how far it should reach, east, west, north and south: according to the number of the children of Israel: the sense is, that such a country was measured out and bounded, as would be sufficient to hold the twelve tribes of Israel, when numerous, and their time was come to inhabit it; and which, in the mean while was put into the hands of Canaan and his eleven sons to possess; not as their proper inheritance, but as tenants at will, until the proper heirs existed, and were at an age, and of a sufficient number to inherit; in which may be observed the wise disposition of divine Providence, to put it into the hands of a people cursed of God, so that to take it from them at any time could not have the appearance of any injustice in it; and their enjoying it so long as they did was a mercy to them, for so long they had a reprieve: now here was an early instance of the goodness of God to Israel, that he should make such an early provision of the land flowing with milk and honey for them, even before they were in being, yea, before their ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, existed; as early as the days of Noah; and yet, ungrateful as they were despised and set at nought his Son, the rock of salvation, when sent unto them: thus the heavenly inheritance, typified by the land of Canaan, was not only promised, but prepared, provided, secured, and reserved for the spiritual Israel of God, before the foundation of the world, from all eternity, and which is appointed according to their number; there is room enough in it for them all, though they are many; in it are many mansions for the many sons to be brought to glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
32:8 God is sovereign over and concerned with all nations and has allotted their land in accord with his own purposes (see Ps 74:17; Acts 17:26). • the Most High (Hebrew ‘Elyon): Abraham learned this name for God when he encountered Melchizedek (Gen 14:19). This ancient name describes God’s universal sovereignty. • assigned lands: One evidence of God’s sovereignty was his distribution of lands to the nations (see Gen 10).